Prison Guard Commits Suicide at Arjat 2 Prison in Morocco

Prison Officer Tragically Takes Own Life in Morocco
Tragedy at Moulay Youssef Hospital: A Look at the Pressures Faced by Correctional Officers
A somber cloud hangs over Morocco’s correctional system following the tragic suicide of a prison officer at Moulay Youssef Hospital in Rabat. Faiq Al-Aissi, an officer at Arjat 2 local prison, took his own life on Friday, January 31, 2025, around 8 p.m. The General Delegation for Prison Administration and Reintegration (DGAPR) confirmed the incident, stating that Al-Aissi used his service weapon.
Al-Aissi was tasked with guarding an inmate receiving medical treatment at the hospital. He reportedly excused himself to use the restroom, where he tragically ended his life. The incident has sent shockwaves through the prison system and raised concerns about the mental well-being of correctional officers.
The public prosecutor’s office has been notified and an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding this devastating event. The DGAPR has also launched an internal inquiry to shed light on the factors that may have contributed to Al-Aissi’s decision.
This tragic incident underscores the often-overlooked pressures faced by correctional officers. Working within the prison environment can be incredibly demanding, both physically and emotionally. Officers are constantly exposed to violence, trauma, and human suffering, which can take a significant toll on their mental health. They also face challenges such as long hours, understaffing, and limited resources, further exacerbating the strain.
While specific details regarding Al-Aissi’s situation are still emerging, his suicide highlights the urgent need for increased support and resources for correctional officers. Access to mental health services, stress management programs, and peer support groups are crucial for ensuring their well-being.
The World Health Organization recognizes the importance of mental health in all professions, including challenging ones like correctional work. Studies have shown that correctional officers experience higher rates of PTSD, depression, and anxiety compared to the general population. [Link to relevant WHO resource or study on mental health in demanding professions]. Furthermore, the unique stressors of prison environments, such as inmate manipulation and the constant threat of violence, contribute to a heightened risk of suicide. [Link to research on suicide rates among correctional officers].
Investing in the mental health of correctional officers is not only essential for their individual well-being but also for the safety and security of the prison system as a whole. A healthy and supported workforce is better equipped to handle the demands of the job and contribute to a more humane and effective correctional system.
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of overlooking mental health within demanding professions. It is a call to action for governments and correctional institutions to prioritize the well-being of their staff and provide the necessary resources to prevent future tragedies. We must remember that behind the uniform, there are individuals facing immense pressures, and their mental health deserves our attention and support.
Keywords: Morocco, prison officer, suicide, Arjat 2 prison, Moulay Youssef Hospital, Rabat, DGAPR, mental health, correctional officers, prison reform, occupational stress, PTSD, depression, anxiety.